A ‘bug and scrub’ program is now available to help individuals deal with BBs in their homes. An individual can get support, with the sponsorship of an organization, that will help pay for dislocation and treatment. Information is available at 1 855 362 2847 – the government’s BB Hotline.

A Coalition Coordinator is not yet been hired but someone is expected on the job by September.

The next meeting of the Coalition is August 4th

3. BBTF blog

SPCW has set up a Bed Bug Blog for the Task Force – go to http://www.spcw.mb.ca and the Bed Bug Blog button. There will be information for anyone on what is happening with the Task Force or the government programs. Each section of the Blog will also have a Reply button where readers can easily send questions or comments. The blog with be managed for the Task Force by the SPCW.

4. Community Consultation

The SPCW consultation, for the government has started.

Sue Hemphill has been hired and is setting up the events for the consultation

Different agencies are being contacted to be part of the consultation

Different survey tools are being developed so that information can be gathered from a diversity of groups

She will be reporting on consultation progress to the BBTF meetings

A final report on the consultation will be going to the government in September.